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PPT → MVT
Which side of the plane to sit from Faa'a International Airport (Papeete) to Mataiva Airport (Mataiva)?
Right Side of the Plane
While the left side offers an iconic view of Moorea during departure, the right side provides the most breathtaking perspective of Tahiti's mountains and the unique reticulated 'honeycomb' lagoon of Mataiva during the approach.
Search flights from PPT to MVT
Mount Orohena
Panoramic views of Tahiti's interior and its highest volcanic peak rising 2,241 meters above sea level.
Venus Point
The historic northern tip of Tahiti, famous for its black sand beach and historic lighthouse.
Tetiaroa Atoll
On clear days, catch a glimpse of this stunning sanctuary, once the private retreat of Marlon Brando.
Honeycomb Lagoon
Mataiva's unique reticulated lagoon structure, divided into approximately 70 shallow basins by coral walls.
Coconut Groves
Dense clusters of palms covering the narrow ring of land that separates the ocean from the inner lagoon.
The right side is essential for seeing the 'Honeycomb' lagoon, which is Mataiva's most famous feature. Most flights approach Mataiva from the south; the right side typically gets the best angle as the pilot turns to align with the small runway. Polarized sunglasses are highly recommended to cut through the water's surface glare and see the coral structures clearly.
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Moorea Silhouette
Breathtaking views of the jagged peaks and emerald bays of Tahiti's sister island shortly after takeoff.
Papeete Waterfront
A top-down look at the bustling harbor, cruise ship terminal, and the urban heart of French Polynesia.
Pacific Blue
Dramatic transitions from the shallow turquoise lagoons to the deep indigo waters of the open ocean.
Mataiva Outer Reef
The stark white foam of the Pacific crashing against the coral barrier as the plane descends.
Sit on the left if you want the best possible photo of Moorea during the initial climb out of PPT. Since the flight is north-northwest, morning flights (usually Air Tahiti's schedule) provide excellent lighting on this side without harsh glare.
Get eSIMs for French Polynesia
Get eSIMs for French PolynesiaDistance: 313 km (194 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 31 min
Departure: PPT (-17.553698999999998, -149.60699499999998)
Arrival: MVT (-14.8681001663208, -148.7169952392578)
Route Type: Domestic
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